Freely accessible signposted routes and paths to discover the landscape, flora and fauna of the Bosco delle Pianelle Nature Reserve, which can always be used and visited on foot, by bicycle and on guided excursions.
The Bosco delle Pianelle boasts a rich avifauna which has found an ideal habitat in its vegetation.
The precious green lung constitutes the spearhead of the rich environmental and landscape heritage of the area and has always been a privileged destination for visitors and tourists.
The Bosco delle Pianelle Oriented Regional Nature Reserve falls entirely within the municipality of Martina Franca, developing in the Murgian territory, the forest is also rich in caves, here, in fact, the brigands of southern Puglia found refuge.
There are two well-known ravines in the park, the Gravina Pianelle and the Gravina del Vuolo; the Gravine are karst incisions up to 100 meters deep, created by now extinct streams.
Inside the Gravina di Vuolo is the Cave of Sergeant Romano, one of the most famous brigands who took refuge here with his gang between 1861 and 1863 following the unification of Italy.
The Flora is mainly characterized by downy oaks, fragni and holm oaks, here hornbeams, elms and strawberry trees also grow; in Spring while walking through the woods it is possible to admire the Blooms of wild orchids, which are very present.
The Avifauna is characterized by the presence of numerous birds of prey, especially during the hottest hours of the day it is easy to see the gliding flights of hunting birds. There are numerous examples of buzzards and kestrels, and it is also possible to admire the flight of the rare sparrowhawk.
Among the nocturnal birds of prey, the owl, the tawny owl, the barn owl and the long-eared owl stand out. In summer the hoopoe also nests here. Among the mammals there are squirrels as well as numerous rodents such as hares and wild rabbits; Foxes, badgers, martens, polecats, porcupines and groups of fallow deer also inhabit the forest
Information
The visitor center staff welcomes visitors with information and material dedicated to understanding and exploring the protected area. In the Infopoint you will find trail maps and guides on the Nature Reserve, as well as all the latest info on scheduled events.
Bicycle Rental
The bicycle is the ideal way to explore the woods and its surroundings far and wide! A park of mountain bikes that can be rented by the hour is available to guests; a convenient service accessible to all. Bike rental is available during visitor center opening hours.
Excursions and Cycling
The guides of the Serapia Cooperative accompany visitors, on foot and by bike, along the most beautiful itineraries of the protected area, among suggestive tree-lined galleries and panoramic views of rare beauty, also touching the historic farms in the surrounding area. A fascinating journey to learn more about the flora, fauna and history of the forest, with all the productive activities linked to it over time.
Walking
An enchanting walk among elegant ferns and monumental holm oaks, to discover the secrets of the plants and wild animals that populate the nature reserve. Walking in the footsteps of the bandits who, in the post-unification period, took refuge in the intricate Mediterranean scrub of this corner of the Murgia, you reach the suggestive panoramic point of the imposing Pianelle ravine and the Captain’s Tree, the largest holm oak in the woods.
Guesthouse and camper area
Do you want to spend a night in the Bosco delle Pianelle? The Nature Reserve has an area equipped for staying in a tent, as well as for stopping with your camper. Included: ample parking, toilets, gazebo and barbecue area.
Picnic area
Made up of wooden tables and benches, brick barbecues, parking, toilets, children’s playground, paths immersed in the pine forest and other services offered by the Reserve Visitor Centre.
In fact, the nature reserve is not just a picnic, but above all a place where you can live in close contact with nature. We organize educational activities for groups of children and it will be possible to go on excursions, cycle trekking, bird watching, theater and experiences in nature.
It’s also a campsite and camper stop area!
Bosco delle Pianelle Nature Reserve
SS581 km 14+900
Martina Franca (Taranto)
Puglia – Italy
What to do see where to go in the province in the surrounding area near places to visit weekends Natural Attractions Itineraries picnic area children’s games Activities for Families Excursions Free Admission to Visit Flora Fauna Natural Parks Walks Public Parks Trails Routes